Tia Fletcher, the auntie of brothers Corey and Casper Platt-May, who were aged six and two, killed in a hit-and-run collision looks at floral tributes close to the scene in Coventry where the two boys were struck by a car on Thursday. She is also pictured, right, with her brother and father of the boys Reese Platt-May.

Casper could not be revived and died a short time later, while Corey was rushed into surgery, but also died. Their mother was unhurt.

Detective Sergeant Paul Hughes, from West Midland Police's collision investigation unit, said: "Several witnesses have come forward and I am grateful to everyone who has spoken to us.

"Specialist family liaison officers are with the family, who are understandably distraught, and they are being kept fully updated.

"This collision has had a profound effect on the community in Stoke and I would ask people not to speculate on what happened which may cause further distress to the family. They need our combined support to help them through this dreadful time."

Locals pay floral tributes to 'energetic and bubbly' brothers

Local people and family members have placed tributes on a pavement near the scene, including bunches of flowers, candles and cuddly toys.

The boys' aunt, Chelsea Platt-May, said of the tributes: "Seeing that makes me sad but also happy to know how much of a community spirit there is."

Choking back tears as she spoke of the pain felt by all members of the family, including the victims' two surviving siblings, Chelsea added: "Corey was energetic and bubbly, and Casper was cheeky and was very close to my child.

"They will be greatly missed by the whole family."

Family and friends have set up a number of fundraising pages to help the grieving parents, one of which has already passed its £2,000 target.

Lauren Dooley, 25, set up one fundraiser within hours of the accident on Thursday afternoon and by Friday morning it had received more than £3,00 in donations.

"I understand that there is help towards funeral costs for children already. However this does not cover all costs," Ms Dooley, who works for an accounting firm in Coventry, told the Press Association. "The money will be used for flowers and any other costs that may occur."

Two other fundraising pages have almost reached their target, promising more than £1,500 to the family so far.